A bill that would authorize the Port of South Louisiana in LaPlace to regulate commerce and traffic in Jefferson Parish would help it join efforts to redevelop Avondale Shipyard, according to parish officials.

Developers proposing a West Bank neighborhood of over 20,000 residents are optimistic that new flood insurance rate maps will help move the project forward. But a local real estate analyst said the area needs large-scale employment growth in order for it to succeed.

The city of Kenner is currently accepting proposals to bring a “boardwalk style” development to its lakefront, with the hopes of bringing condominiums, retail development, office space and recreational amenities to the area.